Fantasy author Anna Smith Spark discusses the inspiration behind her work, including the influence of ancient and medieval history, her research process, and the balance between fantasy and real-world cultures. Featuring a live reading and Q&A, followed by a signing at the Waterstones bookstall.

About Anna:

Anna Smith Spark lives in London, UK. She loves grimdark and epic fantasy and historical military fiction. Anna has a BA in Classics, an MA in history and a PhD in English Literature.

Anna's favourite authors and key influences are R. Scott Bakker, Steve Erikson, M. John Harrison, Ursula Le Guin, Mary Stewart and Mary Renault. She spent several years as an obsessive D&D player. She can often be spotted at sff conventions wearing very unusual shoes.